2008 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (260 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |
